Social SciencesGrowing Study ProspectsBachelor

Applied Behavior Analysis

Also known as: Behavioral Therapy, Applied Behavior Science

A program that focuses on the application of principles of learning and behavior to enhance the development, abilities, and choices of children and adults; and that prepares individuals to address the behavioral needs of individuals, especially those with developmental disabilities and autism. Inclu
Applied Behavior AnalysisBehavior TherapyAutism ServicesDevelopmental Disabilities SupportBehavioral InterventionHealthcareEducationSocial ServicesSocial SciencesResearch

A Week as a Student

You start your week with a challenging "Principles of Learning" lecture, deciphering complex schedules of reinforcement. Later, your "Introduction to ABA" class assigns your first group project: observing behaviors in a video case study. You meet your group members briefly to assign initial roles, already feeling the weight of upcoming deadlines. After lunch, you spend an hour at the campus gym, trying to clear your head before tackling dense readings for tomorrow's "Developmental Psychology" seminar. It’s a full first day, setting the pace for the week.

High School Preparation

Required Subjects

PsychologyBiologyStatisticsEnglish

Recommended GPA

3.0-4.0

Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)

  • AP Psychology
  • AP Biology
  • IB Psychology

Core Subjects

Click on "i" to learn more about each subject

Career Prospects

Growing Study Prospects
Graduates find opportunities as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), behavioral therapists, or consultants in clinical settings, schools, and homes. They help design and implement evidence-based interventions to support individuals with a wide range of behavioral needs.

Impact of AI on this Study

AI influences this field by enabling advanced data analysis of behavioral patterns, developing adaptive learning tools for intervention, and creating intelligent assistive technologies. These advancements can enhance the efficiency and personalization of behavioral therapies.